The Surname as a Cultural Value and an Ethnic Heritage: Tracing Your Polish Roots

This book is a study of the surnames throughout history of both native and emigrant Poles. It explores the many aspects of Polish surnames including the axiological aspect, that is associated with human values.

The concept of 'surname' as a name for the whole family rose coterminous with a system of surnames, and from the 15th century on surnames became a cultural value for Poles, as important as dignity, honour and good reputation. The aspect of cultural value is extensively documented throughout this book.

A survey of contemporary attitudes to surnames is also analysed in this volume. As is the surname's position in relation to law.

The history of the most common surnames ending in "-ski" both in Poland and the Polish diaspora is discussed as well.

Also shown in this book are the changes undergone by Polish Americans in their relationship to American society, as reflected by changes in surnames.

'The Dictionary of the Oldest Polish Surnames Ending in -ski' gives information regarding their origin and chronological and geographic occurrence. It should strongly assist in the tracing of Polish roots.